ELTE Launches Flagship Artificial Intelligence Programme

Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) has launched a new flagship programme focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance Hungary’s role in AI development and application.
Government Commissioner for Artificial Intelligence László Palkovics highlighted that Hungary ranks among the world’s top 20 in AI usage and has the highest proportion of AI tool users in Central and Eastern Europe.
The programme aims not just to maintain but to further advance Hungary’s position in AI, with a goal to actively contribute to the technology’s development.
The Hungarian government has developed a national AI strategy and formed the Hungarian Artificial Intelligence Council, identifying ten priority areas for AI application, including culture, energy, agriculture, and healthcare.
Future milestones for AI in Hungary include domestic production of humanoid robots, a centre of excellence for oncology, self-driving vehicles, and new data centres.
ELTE’s Rector Lénárd Darázs emphasized a comprehensive approach to AI that combines technological research with social sciences, humanities, and psychology.
This AI programme is the university’s third flagship initiative, complementing existing efforts in enhancing students’ digital competencies and promoting sustainability.
The university believes that AI will be a critical part of the future and thus requires integration into higher education through its new focus.